Oil Pulling: A popular trend that is easy and one step towards a healthier mouth!
[What is it?]
Ancient Ayruveda practice that involves swishing oil around your mouth to cleanse not only the oral cavity, but the rest of your body as well! The oil literally “pulls” toxins from your system as you pull the oil through your teeth and gums. Coconut oil, olive oil, or sesame oil are typically used (matter of personal preference).
[How to do it]
Morning is the ideal time to oil pull because your bacteria levels are at their highest. Place 1-3 teaspoons of oil in your mouth. Swish and “pull” the oil around the inside of your cheek and in between your teeth. Continue for 5-20 minutes. Spit into garbage can. Swish very well with salt water. Brush and floss your teeth as normal.
[Benefits]
There are numerous! But a few include: 1) reduced bacteria in mouth, bad breath, plaque, risk of gum disease and 2) increased whitening of teeth, mental awareness, overall physical health.
Monica
Intern, Swiss Dental Center
Dr. Carol Phillips
Swiss Dental Center
staging.swissdentalcenter.com